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Physics and AstronomyFull Time Faculty: John Cannon, James Doyle, James Heyman (Chair), Sung Kyu Kim, Tonnis ter Veldhuis, Laboratory Supervisor: Brian Adams The department of physics and astronomy offers courses that treat experimental, theoretical, philosophical and historical developments in the search to understand our physical universe. Emphasis is placed on developing critical thinking and problem solving skills in this context. In addition to the physics major program (described below), the department’s curriculum is also designed to support the needs of two other groups of students: Non-science majors who want to study the conceptual foundations of physics and astronomy should consider Physics 111 (Contemporary Concepts), Physics 113 (Modern Astronomy), Physics 130 (Science of Renewable Energy) and 194-level topics courses. Science majors who seek a physics foundation for advanced science studies should consider the three-term sequence of introductory physics, Physics 226 (Principles of Physics I); Physics 227 (Principles of Physics II); and Physics 331 (Modern Physics). This sequence uses calculus; at a minimum Physics 226 requires concurrent registration in Applied Calculus. These courses also serve as prerequisites for advanced courses leading to the physics major and minor. In addition, Physics 221–222 is a two-term sequence in introductory physics, which does not assume a working knowledge of calculus. These courses are regularly offered only in the Macalester Summer Physics Institute directed by Sung Kyu Kim.
General Distribution Requirement All courses in the physics and astronomy department except some topics courses and those numbered 614, 624, 634 and 644 count toward the general distribution requirement in mathematics and natural science. General Education Requirements Courses that meet the general education requirements in writing, quantitative thinking, internationalism and multiculturalism will be posted on the Registrar’s web page in advance of registration for each semester. Additional information regarding the general distribution requirement and the general education requirements can be found in the graduation requirements section of this catalog. Major Requirements The major in physics provides a rigorous study of many topics in the field of physics that are fundamental for every scientific and technological discipline. The physics major is particularly appropriate for students wishing to pursue graduate study in physics, astronomy, engineering, medicine and related areas, as well as for those seeking positions in technology-oriented business and industry. For example, a double major in physics and computer science would be excellent preparation for graduate study in computer engineering. The minimum requirements for the physics major are 33 physics credits. These include the nine courses numbered 226, 227, 331, 443, 444, 348, 461, 481, and 489, and completion of an independent project to satisfy the senior capstone requirement (see below). All physics majors are expected to develop the computer skills necessary to obtain solutions for meaningful problems. Students intending to pursue graduate study in physics, astronomy, engineering or other closely related disciplines should consult with a department faculty advisor to consider which advanced elective courses would be most appropriate for their career goals. For example, preparation for graduate study in physics should include Physics 334, 468 and mathematics at least through multi-variable calculus, differential equations and linear algebra. Note that many graduate programs require proficiency in a foreign language and/or a computer language. The senior capstone requirement in physics and astronomy is satisfied by participation as a senior in the Physics Seminar (Physics 489), and completion of an approved research experience, an approved independent project, or a senior honors thesis. Students will be expected to give a formal talk on their capstone project as part of the Physics Seminar. Students expecting to complete a major in physics are urged to make early contact with the department for help in evaluating advanced placement options and for assistance in planning course selections. A typical schedule for the first two years for a student without advanced placement follows: First Year Sophomore Year Fall Term Spring Term Fall Term Spring Term Physics 226 Physics 227 Physics 331 Physics 348 Mathematics 135 Mathematics 137 Mathematics 237 Mathematics 236 elective elective elective elective elective elective elective elective The Oak Ridge Program This program is jointly sponsored at Oak Ridge National Laboratory by the Associated Colleges of the Midwest and the Great Lakes Colleges Association. It affords students a one-term period of study and research participation at Oak Ridge. The department makes every effort to support applications by qualified students for participation in this program. Sixteen credits in physics are granted to physics majors who complete the program. Engineering Macalester does not offer engineering courses. However, students who desire to pursue engineering as a career may earn a graduate degree in an engineering field after graduation from Macalester or they may complete a cooperative 3-2 engineering program at the University of Minnesota or Washington University. Physics Major with Astronomy Emphasis This option is designed for students with a strong interest in astronomy and astrophysics who may be contemplating post-graduate work in these areas. The physics major with astronomy emphasis includes the following courses required for the physics major: Physics 226, 227, 331, 443, 444, 461, and 489 (one credit). In addition, students must take Physics 460 (Astrophysics) and Physics 440 (Observational Astronomy). The capstone requirements for a physics major with astronomy emphasis are identical to those for a physics major. For students with little or no astronomy background we strongly recommend starting with Physics 113 and Physics 120. Students considering graduate work in astronomy or astrophysics should also consider taking Physics 468 and Physics 481, mathematics through Math 312, and having some computer programming experience (e.g. Computer Science 120 or higher). Those students choosing a major with an astronomy emphasis will have this noted on their transcripts (e.g. Physics Major with Astronomy Emphasis). Minor Requirements The minor in physics consists of Physics 226, 227, 331 and two electives in physics numbered above 331. Honors Program The physics and astronomy department participates in the honors program. Eligibility requirements, application procedures and specific project expectations for the physics and astronomy department are available from either the department office or the Director of Academic Programs. Topics Courses 194, 294, 394, 494 These temporary courses are offered by instructors at their own initiative or in response to student requests. The following are examples of recent offerings: Cosmology, Condensed Matter Physics, Nanoscience, Particle Physics, Biomechanics, Chemical Physics, and General Relativity. To be announced at registration. (2–4 credits)
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